A Guide To Clothing Manufacturing and Types of Garment Production

Whether you’re a new fashion brand or an established label,
understanding clothing manufacturing processes can improve your business operations.

What is clothing manufacturing?

Clothing manufacturing describes the several processes that make a garment.
Each area is separated into departments within the overall production, such as cutting, sewing and finishing the product.

Plus, aspects such as production planning and managing logistics are essential steps in operations.

Not all garment manufacturing is the same.
However, similar principles apply in many production facilities depending on the methods and skill used.

Typically, there are two methods of garment production.

Full Production Package clothing production (FPP)

What is FPP?

FPP clothing production provides all stages of garment creation, including design development to the finished product.
Clothing manufacturers will guide you through the process and use your designs to create technical drawings to use for production.

The stages of FPP include:

Technical drawings and pattern making
Fabric sourcing
Creation of samples
Final garment production

If you choose FPP services, the manufacturer works with you to help with fabric
sourcing and advise on suitable, cost-effective methods and options.

Full Production Package services are a great option for new fashion brands and companies inexperienced in production process.
However, one of the downsides – the amount of investment needed for this service is higher.

Cut, Make, Trim clothing production (CMT)

What is CMT?

This clothing production service involves cutting, making and sewing the garment into your final product.

CMT manufacturing requires some knowledge of the production process, and brands will need tech specifications to get started.
The factory will make garments according to brand guidelines and patterns.
All relevant information should be provided to the clothing producer to ensure you get the exact finish you require.
Omissions or errors in your spec sheets could prove costly to fix.

CMT manufacturing is ideal for established brands, and it offers more control over the final product.

CMT vs FPP

There are pros and cons for each type of production method.
The best way to choose a suitable option is to determine your requirements and your experience level.
The considerations to make when choosing the best clothing manufacturing should also focus on:

Quality of products
Lead times
Costs
Factory specialism

Mass production or low minimum order manufacturing?

Many new businesses start small, so clothing manufacturers offering high MOQs are not a cost-effective option.
However, more and more factories are now offering low MOQs, which helps brands scale at the right speed.

Mass production manufacturers are typically used by the big brands that need fast turnarounds and large order quantities.

Choosing suitable order quantities for your brand should be determined by your business plan and potential growth in the market.

How do I find the right FPP or CMT clothing manufacturer?

Research is key to finding the best clothing manufacturer for your fashion brand.
Look at the options available for both CMT and FPP services and determine your production needs.
Many clothing producers offer advice and support throughout the process and help you make a suitable choice to suit your brand plan and budget.